Homemade gym equipment

I'm a fabricator based in central Maryland, and i've recently got into building gym equipment like the prowler and push-up spikes.

I was looking for new equipment to build for a better price than typically offered and I figured these forums would be the best place to start. I'm looking for ideas, not commitments, so if you've ever had an idea on a new product or to modify an existing one, I'de love to hear it.... Thanks in advance! Also, I cannot respond to Pms until my post count hits 7, please e-mail me at ironcladfabrication@gmail.com if you'de like personal feedback.

When I get home, I will add a photo of a prowler I made with mods. It's uncoated, but was later zinc primed and then coated the frame silver and posts/skids gloss black.

Last edited by Iron_Clad; 06-14-2011 at 11:47 AM.
Reason: Adding that I cannot pm

That would be outstanding. Definitely let me know on some pricing, and if I can get them to NC I will do photoshoot for your creations and post them up. Im a high school art teacher on summer vacation so I have plenty of time on my hands...it'll give me something creative to do as well.

I'm making a traditional drag sled this afternoon, and i'm working on creating a mock ab wheel. Once I get the mock together i'll put out money for something more appealing to the eye. I'll be doing a yoke and some sort of farmers walk bars in the future.

I'm working on getting photos so I can create a site as well. I'm talking 6-12 months out though.

These are the first two i've done, I'm not exactly thrilled with them but I guess they are practical. I'm going to keep researching different brands and options other drag sleds have and re-do the plan before I finalize anything.

Any suggestions on gear I should make that is or is not on the market? I'm thinking of building a reverse hyper, I just want to see one in person. I just finished 2 drag sleds and had both the push-up spikes and sleds coated.

Pretty sweet to see others that do their own equipment too! I have been looking into building a couple prowlers to have races with. Push them down the alley so far, turn around and pull them back. Would def be a killer workout!

"But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded."

Here is the finished products of the two drag sleds and the larger set of push-up spikes. I'm thrilled with the spikes, but I think i'm going to make changes to the sleds. I'm not sure if it is better to have just one single loop in the front of the sled for attaching or to break it down like I did with two different attachments. I always appreciate feedback good or bad. Thanks to all that have responded so far

Sorry I_C, No body wants to throw down on a sled with me, and right now I just cant afford to purchase one myself. I would like to order some spikes though. What your method of payment? I would prefer PayPal if you have an account. I'll definitely get some action shots for you too.

Sorry I_C, No body wants to throw down on a sled with me, and right now I just cant afford to purchase one myself. I would like to order some spikes though. What your method of payment? I would prefer PayPal if you have an account. I'll definitely get some action shots for you too.

Nice, I have never tried spikes do you have a price range? Would like to pick up a set, possibly a 2" oly sled too but have to see if my gym owner will let me keep it there.

"No citizen has a right to be an amateur in the matter of physical training...what a disgrace it is for a man to grow old without ever seeing the beauty and strength of which his body is capable." - Socrates